Cardinal Cavaliers

Bringing home a new puppy is exciting! Maybe you've never owned a dog before or maybe it's been a while and you need a refresher - either way here are a few tips I always try to pass along to new puppy owners:

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1. Puppy proofing your new home before you bring him/her home is essential.  Sometimes we don't notice the little things laying around because we haven't had to worry about it before.  Try to see it from their level and through their eyes and be sure to remove foreign objects that could potentially be ingested or harmful to your new family member.  Have a conversation with everyone in the house about what the expectations are and these types of dangers before you bring your puppy home so everyone is aware and can help keep your puppy safe.

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2. When you first bring your puppy home, it can be normal for your puppy to have a little diarrhea or softer stool.  This can be due in part to the stress / excitement of a new home and they should get over it quickly as they settle in.  There are, however, a few other things that can cause diarrhea including worms, ingesting something foreign, a change in diet, etc.  If it continues for more than a day or two, notify your vet (if you suspect your puppy ingested something foreign, notify your vet immediately). 

A puppy from Cardinal Cavaliers is wormed several times in the first 8 weeks and we highly suggest keeping your puppy on the same food we do.  If you would like to switch foods, do so gradually to allow them to get used to the new food slowly and avoid an upset stomach.  The types of food we give is listed on the Q&A page.

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3. This tip is a VERY important one and so I'm going to repeat it.  Do NOT take your new puppy anywhere until they have had their 3rd vaccination.  You can read why I'm telling you this on the Q&A part about the shots they've received and schedule and it explains why you should keep them home and away from places other dogs may have soiled.  This will help keep them healthy and ensure a lifetime of good health until the vaccinations can take effect.

 

4. Bathing your Cavalier: take care when bathing a Cavalier to not get water in their eyes or ears.  You can gently place cotton balls in their ears to keep water from getting to their inner ear if you wish.  Always use a warm, damp washcloth to clean their face as well to keep the inner ear dry.  

 

Other tips along with videos to cleaning their ears, brushing their teeth, and trimming their nails can be found HERE.

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5. Healthy treats - everyone loves to give a puppy treats!  And they should be rewarded when you are potty training etc. to help them know the behavior you want them to repeat.  However, be sure to choose a low-calorie, nutritious treat if possible.  I often buy the carrot chips and give those to my big dogs.  You could even make your own.  There are a lot of recipes online and this website and this website both give several recipes each.

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6. We recommend crate training your new puppy if they will be alone for a few hours and at night.  Read more about it and some tips on crate training HERE.  

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7. With all Cardinal Cavalier puppies, I try to get them started on potty training so they have at least some experience before they go to a new home.  HERE is a helpful link on potty training so you can continue at home.

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A comprehensive site on all sorts of training (think "How to Teach Your Kids to Train the Dog", "Basic Obedience Training for your Dog", and just several articles on leash training, crate and potty training, obedience training, what to do when they are scared of loud noises...there are so many!) can be found HERE. 

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If you still have more questions, or would like a comprehensive book on Cavalier's, try this one available on Amazon.  I was actually approached about giving some information on Cavalier's and this author quotes many breeders.  I received a complimentary copy and it is wonderful!  It is very thorough for both people new to the breed and ones who have had Cavalier's in their family for years.  I would recommend this book.  The Complete Guide to Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.

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No matter if it is a few days, weeks, months or even years after you get your puppy OR whatever your question may be, I am here for the life of the puppy.   Always feel free to contact me with questions.

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